Isn't it time to go natural?

When I first learned that "natural" was an option, I knew that was the way I wanted to go. When I first tried it I felt all awkward and clumsy, but soon I was actually enjoying the experience. Now, like any good convert, I recommend to all my friends that they go natural too.

Am I talking about latest trip to a nudist colony? No, not at all (I heard that sigh of relief!). I am talking about a product I have used for several years, the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Elite. This review outlines why you might, or might not, want to go natural. Because this review is written in conversation style, I've used bold-font to highlight the topic of each section. I hope this has produced an easy to read yet informative review.

I've heard of the Microsoft Natural Keyboard, but remind me. What is it?

A Microsoft Natural Keyboard is an ergonomic keyboard, meaning it is shaped in such a way as to be easy on the hands and wrists when typing. Specifically, it is a "split" keyboard with a space in the middle separating the keys for the left hand from the keys for the right hand. As you can see in the picture at the top of this page, the keys are at an angle, which means your hands, wrists, and forearms are at a much more natural position when typing. Also, the keyboard has a slope to it, which can be increased by raising the "legs" underneath the keyboard. Finally, the keyboard has a built-in palm rest. All of these features are designed to provide a natural, comfortable feel when typing.

I tried one of these ergonomic keyboards in the store and didn't like it.

Good point. Not everyone likes them, and it certainly is kind of awkward at first. However, I think you need to give it more than just a few minutes in a store. I would guess that most touch typists can adapt to the Natural Keyboard Elite in about three lengthy e-mails. By the time you type your seventh paragraph, the split keyboard will feel like home. The several secretaries that I have had over the years have all easily adapted to the keyboard within their first week.

My brother never learned how to type, he just hunts around. Should he try the Natural Keyboard?

He probably won't get as much benefit out of it as a touch typist would. When my friends who "hunt-and-peck" use my keyboard, the get frustrated because the keys don't seem to be in the right places. However, touch typists just adjust their wrists to this keyboard and then the keys are right where they the fingers want them to be.

I know how to type, but my regular keyboard is working fine. Should I go buy a Natural one?

It depends on how much typing you do. If you type an occasional e-mail then you might not need an ergonomic keyboard. However, if you type several e-mails each week, or simply spend a good portion of your computer time using the keyboard, then you really should consider taking an ergonomic keyboard for a test spin. Your wrists will thank you for it.

Well I do a lot of typing and I type fast. Will the Natural Keyboard Elite slow down my typing speed?

I doubt it. As a matter of fact it will probably increase your typing speed once you adjust. I found the natural feel of the keyboard to make keystrokes easier. I also reduced cross-over errors (such as hitting 'h' with the right hand) when I went natural. Even if it doesn't increase your speed, it should not slow you down.

How much does it cost? And you said something about giving one a "test spin"?

I've seen it online for as low as $34.00, but there may be shipping charges. Your local Wal-mart or retail computer store will probably have one for around $35 to $40 and, regarding the test spin, they usually have a return policy that will allow you to return the keyboard within 2 weeks for a full refund if you don't like it. If I were getting one for the first time, I would make sure to buy it at a store that has a good return policy. I'd try if for a week (doing a lot of typing) and take it back if I didn't like it.

Pretty smart idea. I'll give it a try. By the way, why is it called "Elite"?

Well, ergonomic keyboards from Microsoft come in two flavors, Elite and Pro. The Elite version has the ergonomic design, but no additional "specialty" keys. The Pro version has the following specialty keys and features: Internet Hot Keys, Multimedia Keys, E-Mail Hot Key, Custom Hot Keys, Sleep Hot Key, and 2 USB Ports. The Microsoft Natural Keyboard Pro costs around $60. Whether or not those extra keys and features are worth the money is up to you. For me, the Elite has all I need and I liked saving the money.

It looks pretty big. Will it fit in a standard keyboard drawer?

Not always. The exact dimensions of the Elite (from the MS web site) are: Length (left to right) = 19.1 inches; Depth (front to back from furthest point to furthest point) = 9.2 inches; Height (in neutral position) = 1.99 inches. You might want to get out a ruler and measure your desk now to see if it will fit.

Hey! It will fit! Because I do a lot of typing, I think I will get one at Best Buy next time I'm there. They have a pretty good return policy. Is there anything else I should know about the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Elite?

Well, if you're thinking about getting one, I would shop around to see what is available. Start with the Manufacturer's Product page which you can access from this review by clicking on the product picture at the top of this page, then clicking on the link that says "Manufacturer's Product Page." There, you can learn more about the Natural Keyboard Elite and other keyboards Microsoft sells.

Also, on the same Epinions page as the "Manufacturer's Product Page" link, you will see a link where you can "Check Latest Prices" at online stores. That's a good link if your trying to find the best deal.

Finally, you should be aware that the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Elite comes with both a PS2 connection and a USB connection. Installation is easy, just plug it in and it works. It is a very durable, reliable keyboard that will save your wrists some pain if you type a lot.

Oh, because I think the picture of it on this review page is too small, I took the time to find a larger picture of one. Here is a link to the Best Buy web site and on this page they have Product View links that give you a nice, large view of it.

http://www.bestbuy.com/Detail.asp?m=488&cat=549&scat=551&e=11010289

If you do try it I hope you find it worth your while. After years of using one I certainly give it my highest recommendation.

I hope this review of the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Elite has helped you with your purchase decision.

Bret
DrDad